Thumb-actuated locking holster

ABSTRACT

A holster for receiving and withdrawing a handgun has a proximal wall portion with a handgun retention mechanism thereon. The mechanism having a first lever with a tab portion for actuation and release of a trigger guard, the lever having a snap fit into a lever region without a separate pin. A belt engaging member covers the lever region capturing the first lever therein. If a second retention mechanism is used, another lever with a tab portion is positioned so the tabs are stacked, depressing one also depresses the tab behind it, such that both mechanisms are released. Overmolded polymer layers in the holster body provides a softer interior handgun engagement surfaces. The holster body is split forwardly with a threaded fastener for clamping onto the handgun. No holster body is beneath or rearward of the tab portion, configured as a thumb button, allowing smooth transition to gripping the handgun.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patentapplication Ser. No. 17/315,425 filed May 10, 2021, which is acontinuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.16/747,986 filed Jan. 21, 2020, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,002,511, which is acontinuation of U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No.16/364,141 filed Mar. 25, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,619,974, which is acontinuation of U.S. Design patent application No. 29/647,062 filed May9, 2018, now U.S. Pat. No. D860641 and claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application Nos.: 62/647,265, filed Mar. 23, 2018;62/712,717 filed Jul. 31, 2018 and 62/794,594 filed Jan. 19, 2019, theentire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

In many countries (e.g., Germany, Poland and the United States) lawenforcement officers often carry a handgun in an openly visible mannerwhile on duty. The handgun is typically carried in a holster designed toprotect the handgun and hold it securely. The holster may include a beltloop that allows it to be hung from a wide belt, for example, a policeofficer's service belt. The holster may also include a locking mechanismto prevent an assailant from drawing the holster user's weapon andprevent the handgun from inadvertently falling out of the holster, forexample, when the holster user is running, climbing over a fence, etc.It is important that the retention mechanisms are secure in suchchallenging situation.

In addition to having the handgun be secure in the holster inchallenging situations, ease of withdrawal when urgently needed by theuser is an important feature. That is, easy actuation of releasemechanisms in stressful situations.

A holster that securely retains a handgun and that provides improvementin ease of use when the handgun is urgently needed would be welcomed bythe industry.

To have holsters be commercially viable, they need to be priced to meetexpectations of the consuming populace. So any improvement of assemblyand cost efficiencies by minimizing the number of parts and minimizingthe number of assembly steps would also be welcomed by the industry.

SUMMARY

A holster for receiving and holding a handgun having a trigger guardcomprises a polymer holster body and an elongate polymer pivoting leverthat together define a handgun retention mechanism that is thumbactuated and moves a trigger guard block portion of the lever betweenretention and release positions. A thumb button depressible toward thehandgun is optimally positioned on the user side of the holster, isframed by the holster body and is shielded by thumb guides which may beprojecting portions of the body or by components both above and below(with respect to the handgun orientation) the thumb button. In the samemotion of grasping the handgun the thumb button is depressed releasingthe handgun. A feature and advantage of this arrangement is thatunintended access to the handgun release, specifically the thumb button,particularly by others, is limited, while allowing intuitive and easyuser access to the thumb button by user's thumb when grasping thehandgun.

Although thumb buttons that release trigger guard block portions areknown, such buttons are not well protected from inadvertent actuation,or actuation by others and could use improvement in intuitivelyaccessing such buttons by the user.

In embodiments, the holster may be a level-2 configuration, with oneactive restraint, for example the trigger guard, or a level-3configuration, with two active restraints. Both the level 2configuration and the level 3 configuration utilize the optimallypositioned thumb button and may include the elongate polymer pivotinglever that selectively engages the trigger guard of the handgun. Thelevel-3 holster configuration also includes a hood or shroud, such as aU-shaped shroud, that is pivotally supported by the holster body so thatthe U-shaped shroud selectively pivots between a handgun retainingposition in which the U-shaped shroud extends across a rearward openingof the cavity and a release position in which the U-shaped shroud isdisplaced from the rearward opening so that a withdrawal path of thehandgun is unobstructed.

In embodiments, a thumb button of the retaining mechanism is positionedto allow for an intuitive and ergonomic release of the handgun from theholster by positioning the thumb button on the user's side of theholster exactly forward (with respect to the handgun) of the upperhandgrip or backstrap recess; the handgrip or backstrap recess islocated below the handgun slide of holstered handgun. The thumb buttonis sized and positioned to receive the inside surface of the thumb atthe distal knuckle. The thumb button is actuated by depressing it towardthe handgun and is spaced about one half inch or less from the handgunbody. When a user lowers his hand onto the handle of the holsteredhandgun, with the webbing between the user's thumb and forefingerengaging the backstrap recess, as the user grasps the handgun grip, hewill wrap his middle, ring and pinky fingers around the grip of thehandgun, will move the thumb naturally to an actuation position withrespect to the thumb button, and will allow the forefinger to bereceived by an elongate finger recess extending forwardly (with respectto the handgun) on the holster. Squeezing the grip for a full graspingof the handgun can readily depress the thumb button and release thehandgun. This arrangement advantageously allows the user to actuate thethumb button and release the handgun with much less or no concertedeffort of depressing a release button. While the forearm is extending ina downward direction, grasping of the holstered handgun is with lesstension in the muscles and tendons of the thumb and forearm. The thumbbutton position as described provides for natural and comfortablemovement of the thumb, the same movement as grasping the handgun. It isnoted that the mechanics of the muscles and tendons of the thumb andforearm when downward readily accomplish this grip and handgun release,the mechanics change when the forearm is extending in a horizontaldirection away from the torso of the handgun user. The master grip isfacilitated in embodiments, both level two and level three, where thethumb button has no holster body portions or other holster componentsdirectly rearward of the rearward margin of the thumb button, and noholster body portions below the thumb button. Such embodiments providethe feature and advantage that as the handgun is withdrawn, the user'sthumb slides off of the thumb button into immediate contact with thehandgun. That is, there is no engagement with the exterior surface ofthe holster body by the user's thumb either during actuation of therelease of the retention mechanism or as the handgun is withdrawn. Inthat the thumb button is positioned in close proximity to the surface ofthe handgun, the thumb movement inward as the thumb transitions fromengagement with the button to engagement with the body of the handgun isminimal.

In embodiments, a holster for receiving a handgun having a trigger guardcomprises a holster body having a plurality of holster wall portionsdefining a rearward opening cavity with a handgun receiving andwithdrawal axis. The holster has a first handgun retention mechanism, asecond handgun retention mechanism, and a thumb receiving tab thatactuates both the first handgun retention mechanism and the secondhandgun retention mechanism. In embodiments, each handgun retentionmechanism selectively prevents the handgun from being withdrawn from thecavity defined by the wall portions of the holster body.

In embodiments, the first handgun retention mechanism may comprise alever pivotally supported by the holster body. In embodiments, the leverhas an elongate central portion, a depressible portion, and a blockingportion. The depressible portion of the lever comprises a first armextending away from the elongate central portion in a first direction sothat the elongate central portion and the first arm cooperate to form afirst L-shape. The blocking portion of the lever comprises a second armextending away from the elongate central portion in a second directionopposite the first direction so that the elongate central portion andthe second arm cooperate to form a second L-shape. The entire leverhaving a stretched Z shape. In embodiments, the lever is pivotallysupported by the holster body so that the lever pivots about a leveraxis that extends in upward and downward directions with respect to theworn holster, and forward and rearward with the handgun orientation. Inembodiments, the lever pivots between a handgun trigger guard captureposition and a handgun trigger guard release position. The blockingportion of the lever extends into a trigger guard portion of the holsterbody while the lever is disposed in the handgun trigger guard captureposition.

In embodiments, the second handgun retention mechanism may comprise ahood or shroud, for example a U-shaped hood or shroud that is pivotallysupported by the holster body so that the U-shaped shroud selectivelypivots between a handgun retaining position in which the U-shaped shroudextends across a rearward opening of the cavity and a release positionin which the U-shaped shroud extends forward of the rearward opening sothat a withdrawal path of the handgun is unobstructed.

In embodiments, the holster includes a U-shaped shroud that is part of ahood assembly including a bracket that captures the U-shaped shroud anddefines a slot. In embodiments, the holster includes a leaf spring thatis received in the bracket slot when the U-shaped shroud is in thehandgun retaining position. A spring biases the U-shaped shroud to pivottoward a handgun withdrawal position. In embodiments, depression of thethumb button causes the lever to rotate through a first range of rotarymotion and causes deflection of the leaf spring so that a distal portionof the leaf spring is outside of the slot. In embodiments, furtherdepression of the thumb button causing rotation of the lever through asecond range of rotary motion causes the thumb button to engage thedepressible portion of the lever causing at least part of the blockingportion of the lever to be withdrawn from the trigger guard receivingportion of the holster body releasing the trigger guard and allowingremoval of the handgun.

In embodiments, two handgun retention mechanisms utilize pivotingcomponents rather than sliding components, this is believed to generallyreduce the size, complexity, and reliability of the mechanisms andcomponents. Additionally the two actuatable handgun retentionmechanisms, and particularly the pivoting components, are mounted on theexterior of the holster body, thereby simplifying assembly, operation,maintenance, and cleaning, if needed.

In embodiments, the holster body is formed from two polymers, oneovermolded onto the other, providing an interior layer and an exteriorlayer. In embodiments, the interior layer being softer than the exteriorlayer minimizing any wear, damage or markings on the exterior surface ofthe handgun. In embodiments, the interior layer and the exterior layerare combined using an injection molding “overmolding” process where onelayer in injection molded onto the previously molded layer. Inembodiments, the interior layer comprises a thermoplastic elastomer(TPE) and the exterior layer a thermoplastic material. In embodiments,the interior layer comprises a polymer such as Hytrel and the exteriorlayer comprises a polyamide material (e.g., nylon).

In embodiments, the holster body is formed to provide a handgun fittingfunction that can be adjusted by rotating a tensioning screw. The shapeof the forward portion of the handgun can be conceptualized as arectangle and the shape of the cavity defined by the holster body can beconfigured to make point contact with the four corners of therectangular handgun portion. In embodiments, the shape of the cavitydefined by the holster body can be conceptualized as two opposingV-shapes, and upper V-shape and a lower V-shape. The two legs of theupper V-shape and the two legs of the lower V-shape may each contact onecorner of the rectangle. In embodiments, the lower V-shape defines asplit near the lower end of the V-shape. A tensioning screw ispositioned to selectively decrease the angle between the two legs of thelower V-shape. As the angle between the two legs of the lower V-shapedecreases, the two legs of the lower V-shape apply upwardly directedcomponent forces to the corresponding corners of the rectangular handgunportion. The forces applied to the lower corners of the rectangularhandgun portion urge the upper corners of the rectangle against the twolegs of the upper V-shape. In embodiments, the softer inner layerprovides a higher level of friction to the insertion and withdrawal ofthe handgun and thus the adjustment of the tensioning screw is moresensitive and effective in controlling the friction associated with ahandgun withdrawal compared to the same configuration with a harderplastic interior surface.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a retention mechanism has twodistinct separated pivoting connections forming a hinge portion of thehandgun retention mechanism. The hinge portion of the retentionmechanism has a hinge length extending between the outer end portions ofthe two pivot portions. A ratio of the hinge length to the overalllength of the elongate lever is greater than 0.8. This arrangementprovides stability of attachment, robustness and ease of assembly. Thisarrangement also places less stress on the holster body. In embodiments,the pivot portions of the lever and pivot of the body are coupled usinga simple assembly process with no separate hinge pin.

A rearward pivoting connection and a forward pivoting connection of theretention mechanism may each be formed from a pair of cooperatingconnector pivot portions. In embodiments, a forward pivot portion is apin portion and the other forward pivot portion is a C-shaped pinreceiving portion. One of the rearward pivot portions may be a pinportion and the other of the rearward pivot portions may be a C-shapedpin receiving portion. One of the rearward pivot portions may beintegrally formed with the holster body and the other of the rearwardpivot portions may be integrally formed with the lever. One of theforward pivot portions may be integrally formed with the holster bodyand the other of the forward pivot portions may be integrally formedwith the lever.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a pivoting arrangement havinga pin portion that snaps into a corresponding C-shaped portion. Thisarrangement provides manufacturing advantages including fewer parts,easier assembly, the possibility of performing a repair by replacing thelever, and the possibility of replacing the lever with one or morelevers having alternate configurations to suit the preferences ofdifferent users.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a pivoting handgun releasearrangement in a holster made almost entirely of polymeric material,except for springs and fasteners. This arrangement provides ease ofassembly and cost efficiencies by minimizing the number of parts andminimizing the number of assembly steps. In embodiments, the pivotingarrangement includes a polymer pin portion that is received in acorresponding C-shaped portion.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a retention mechanism in aholster that is thumb actuated to selectively release the handgun whenthe user wishes to draw his or her weapon. The release actuationmechanism includes a pivoting lever. The blocking portion of the leverpivots from the blocking position to the release position when theuser's thumb applies a pivoting force to the thumb receiving portion ofthe lever.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is that thumb actuating releaseactuation mechanism is biased, such as by a spring, to a preactuationposition and is automatically reset after withdrawal of the handgun. Thehandgun can be reholstered without manual reset of the retentionmechanism or the release actuation mechanism.

A feature and advantage of embodiments of a holster and attached beltloop is that the release button of the holster is positioned between thehandgun and a belt loop and the holster user and nested within athree-sided frame of the holster body. The thumb release button in thisposition is not readily accessible or visible to potential attackers.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a thumb actuated holster witha depressible thumb button, the holster mounted to a jacket slot beltloop, the jacket slot having vertical ribs that inhibit lateral accessto the depressible thumb button. In embodiments, the

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a thumb-actuated lever that iscaptured between the holster and a mounting plate defining one or moreslots for receiving belts, straps, releasable holster attachmentsystems, and the like. In embodiments, the holster body and the mountingplate define a funneling portion that may be guide the user's thumbtoward the thumb-actuated lever.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster having two handgunretention mechanisms that are both actuated by a single thumb-actuatedbutton. In embodiments, one of the handgun retaining mechanismscomprises a U-shaped shroud that is selectively positionable to extendacross an upper opening of the holster body. In embodiments, the otherof the handgun retaining mechanisms comprises a lever having a triggerguard block portion. In embodiments, the U-shaped shroud and the leverare actuated sequentially by a single thumb-actuated button. Inembodiments, the U-shaped shroud is released before the lever isrotated. In embodiments, releasing the U-shaped shroud before the leveris rotated assures that the U-shaped shroud is out of the way before theuser attempts to withdraw the handgun from the holster.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster having a U-shapedshroud that may remain open when the handgun is reholstered, allowingthe holster to be used in a mode having a lesser level of retention thanwith the U-shaped shroud in a handgun obstructing position. Inembodiments, the U-shaped shroud may be reset by rotating the U-shapedshroud to a position in which the U-shaped shroud obstruct thewithdrawal path of the handgun.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster comprising one ormore finger guides that facilitate consistent and intuitive gripping ofthe handgun before, during and after drawing the handgun from theholster. In embodiments, the finger guides guide the user's hand toconsistently hold the handgun in the master grip upon drawing thehandgun from the holster. In embodiments, the hand assumes the mastergrip position while the handgun is still holstered in the holster. Thumbguides direct the user's thumb to a thumb button and a datum element islocated so that the index finger of the hand is received in the groovewhile the grip portion of the handgun is being gripped in the palm ofthe hand and the index finger is extending downwardly away from the palmof the hand. In embodiments, the handgun is held in the master gripafter the handgun is unholstered. The index finger may transition fromholster engagement to handgun engagement as the handgun is withdrawnfrom the holster cavity. The thumb easily transitions from the thumbbutton to gripping the handgun body. In embodiments, the holstercomprises a novel combination of elements that facilitate reliable andintuitive unholstering of the handgun.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is that the groove defined by adatum element on the outside panel of the body provides a tactileindication of where the index finger should be placed. In embodiments,datum element defines the groove at a location overlaying the handgunframe while the handgun is holstered. The finger datum element mayprovide a high degree of certainty that the user will properly grip thehandgun after withdrawal of the handgun from the cavity. In embodiments,the user may use one motion to reach downward to grasp the handgun. Inembodiments of the invention, the groove for receiving the user'sstraightened index finger may be defined by a datum element formed ofthermoplastic elastomer material. In embodiments, a finger guidingmember is positioned and adapted so that a phalanx of the index fingeris in contact with the datum element prior to and as the handgun isbeing removed from the holster.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster having a fingerguide that engages the user's finger and a thumb actuated button thatengages the user's thumb. In embodiments, the release actuationmechanism is actuated by the user's thumb rather than the user's indexfinger.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster having athumb-actuated button that is not readily accessible or visible topotential attackers. In embodiments, the thumb-actuated button ispositioned between two or more protruding portions of the holster body.In embodiments, the thumb-actuated button is positioned between theholster body and a holster mounting plate. In embodiments, the holstermounting plate defined a plurality of slots, the slots being dimensionedand positioned to receive a belt, such as, for example, a policeofficer's service belt.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster body with an innerpolymer layer or liner disposed on an inside surface of an outer polymershell layer. This arrangement may reduce or eliminate wear and tear onhandgun surface finishes. In embodiments, the inner layer or liner is ofa softer polymer than the shell portion, the shell portion may be nylon.Portions of the inner layer may be exposed through windows in the shelllayer. A feature and advantage of such embodiments is that there is areduction in noise associated with insertion and withdrawal of thehandgun and the finish of the handgun is better protected from scuffingor scratching. In embodiments, the inner softer layer is injectionmolded first and the nylon layer is molded onto the inner layer. Inembodiments, the order may be reversed. In embodiments the dual layerholster body has a tensioning mechanism comprising the holster body witha slit forward from a portion of the holster body that engages thetrigger guard of the handgun, the slit extending to a front opening inthe forward end of the holster body, the upper portion of the holsterbody having a peak with two inclined holster body wall portions joinedat the peak. A threaded fastener extending through aligned holes forwardof the trigger guard receiving region of the holster body may betightened to pull the opposing sides of the holster body togethereffecting a clamping on the four corners of the forward holster body andslide.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a holster that is userconvertible between a level two retention level and a level threeretention level. In embodiments, a thumb actuated lever that releases ashroud over a rearward opening to the holster cavity also engages anddepresses a tab portion on a trigger block lever that rotates the leverto move a trigger guard blocking member out of a blocking position. Thethumb actuated lever and shroud may be removed and the trigger blocklever with the tab portion is replaced with a lever with a push buttonthereon. In embodiments, the trigger block lever may be readily removedand replaced with a thumb actuated lever having a thumb pushbutton, thealternate levers may be snapped or seated into a lever receiving regionon a proximal side of the holster body, the levers rotatable along alever axis when seated in the lever receiving region. Each of thealternate levers may be captured and secured in the lever receivingregion by a holster mounting portion such as a belt loop or a jacketslot belt loop. This provides the advantage that the user can select andmodify her holster for either level two or level three retention ratherthan buying one level three holster and one level two holster.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is an advantageous method ofmanufacturing holster utilizes a single mold for the holster body forboth a level two holster and a level three holster. The mold havingfeatures for a proximal side belt loop mounting region, for example aflat surface with three holes. Above the mounting region structure(positionally the “upper” holster receives the slide of the handgun),the mold having structure for molding features for a first leverreceiving seat and other features associated with a first active handgunretention mechanism, including for example, openings in the proximalholster wall portion forward of the lever receiving seat and rearward ofthe lever receiving seat such that the molded holster body can receiveportions of a first lever of the first active handgun receiving region.The mold also has a second lever receiving region and features forreceiving a second active handgun retention mechanism with a shroudpivotally attached at a rear opening of the holster body. Inembodiments, mold inserts may be utilized to preclude the molded holsterbody from having the features for receiving the second retentionmechanism. For example, a mold insert will be placed in the mold whenopenings for attaching the second retention mechanism are desired, thosemold inserts removed when the molded holster body is intended for alevel two retention. Use of the same mold makes the production moreeconomical resulting in lower prices to the consumer and/or bettermargins in manufacturing.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a thumb actuated button of aretaining mechanism is positioned to allow for intuitive and ergonomicrelease of the handgun from the holster. This allows the user to presshis or her thumb against the thumb button with less tension in themuscles and tendons of the thumb and forearm. The thumb button positionprovides for natural and comfortable movement of the thumb while theforearm is extending in a downward direction.

A feature and advantage of embodiments is a thumb actuated button thatcan be pivoted with little tension in the muscles and tendons of theforearm and thumb while the forearm is extending in a downward directionand the thumb is contacting the thumb actuated button. In embodiments,the thumb actuated button pivots about an axis that is parallel to ahandgun insertion and withdrawal axis of the holster. In embodiments,the retaining mechanism comprises a lever having a thumb button portion,and the lever pivots about an axis that is parallel to a handguninsertion and withdrawal axis of the holster. In embodiments, theretaining mechanism comprises a thumb-actuated button that pivots abouta first axis and a lever that pivots about a second axis that isparallel to the first axis.

The retention mechanism for the holster may include a lever pivotallysupported by the holster body. The lever may comprise an elongatecentral portion integrally formed with a first forward pivot portion,and the holster body may comprise a second forward pivot portionintegrally formed with a wall portion of the holster body. The firstforward pivot portion may be mated with the second forward pivot portionso that the lever is pivotally supported by the holster body. Inembodiments, one of the forward pivot portions is a pin portion and theother of the forward pivot portions is a C-shaped pin receiving portion.In embodiments, the C-shaped pin receiving portion has a circumferentialspan less than or equal to 180 degrees. In embodiments, the C-shaped pinreceiving portion has a circumferential span greater than 180 degrees.In embodiments, the pin receiving portion may extend 360 degrees. Inembodiments, one of the forward pivot portions is a pin portion and theother of the forward pivot portions is a U-shaped pin receiving portion.The lever may also include a first rearward pivot portion integrallyformed with the elongate central portion and the holster body maycomprise a second rearward pivot portion integrally formed with a wallportion of the holster body. The first rearward pivot portion may bemated with the second rearward pivot portion so that the lever ispivotally supported by the holster body. In embodiments, one of therearward pivot portions is a pin portion and the other of the rearwardpivot portions is a C-shaped pin receiving portion. In embodiments, theC-shaped pin receiving portion has a circumferential span less than orequal to 180 degrees. In embodiments, the C-shaped pin receiving portionhas a circumferential span greater than 180 degrees. In embodiments thecircumferential span is greater than 185 degrees. In embodiments, thecircumferential span is greater than 190 degrees. In embodiments, thecircumferential span is 360 degrees. In embodiments, one of the rearwardpivot portions is a pin portion and the other of the rearward pivotportions is a U-shaped pin receiving portion. In embodiments the levermay have only one pivot portion and the body only one cooperating pivotportion. In embodiments, the pivot portion of the lever extendssubstantially or mostly the length of the lever.

In embodiments, the pin portion is configured as a pintle and the pinreceiving portion is configures as a gudgeon. In embodiments, the pintleis unitary with the lever of the retention mechanism and the gudgeon isunitary with the holster body.

A holster in accordance with this detailed description may comprise auser attachment means such as a belt engaging member, a holster body anda lever disposed between the holster body and the user attachment means.The lever may be pivotally supported by the holster body and may bemoveable between a handgun trigger guard capture position and a handguntrigger guard release position. In embodiments, the belt engaging memberis fixed to the holster body by a plurality of screws. The lever, maybe, for example, captured between the user attachment means and theholster body. In embodiments, the lever can be freely separated from theholster body after the user attachment means is removed from the holsterbody. In embodiments, the user attachments means is a belt engagingmember comprising a first belt loop portion defining a first beltpassageway. In embodiments, the belt engaging member comprises a secondbelt loop portion defining a second belt passageway.

In embodiments, the user attachment means is a jacket slot belt loopthat has a lower plate portion having a holster attachment region, a midlevel portion, and an upper portion with a pair of belt loops. The lowerplate portion having apertures for receiving threaded fasteners forattachment of the holster at the holster attachment region. The midlevel portion may have a distal side that cooperates with the holsterbody to capture components of a retention mechanism between the holsterbody and the mid level portion of the jacket slot belt loop andthereabove a pair of upright ribs protruding outwardly from the distalsurface of the plate portion defining a recess therebetween that extendsupwardly to the upper portion and is open upwardly. The upper portionhaving a central column with an upper margin. A pair of belt loopmembers are displaced distally inward of the central column anddisplaced laterally from the central column. The belt loop membersconnect to the central column at upper connecting portions, the centralcolumn, the upper connection portions and the belt loop members allunitary with each other. Each belt loop member having a lower end notunitarily joined to the central column but having a closable spacingtherefrom. The central column may have protruding portions configured asbosses to cooperate with the lower ends of the belt loop members.Threaded fasteners may be utilized to adjust the spacing between eachbelt loop member and the central column effecting a clamping action ontoa belt, such as a duty belt, whereby the jacket slot belt loop issecured to a user's belt. Elastomeric bushings may be utilized betweenthe lower ends of the belt loop members and bosses of the centralcolumn. A feature and advantage of such embodiments is that the level ofclamping of the jacket slot belt loop and holster are readilyadjustable. Moreover, the lateral offset of the belt loop members fromthe central column provides stability for the mounting system andholster as the length of the engagement of the jacket slot belt loopwith the holster is extended.

The ribs may provide structural strengthening of the plate portion aswell as providing access inhibiting structure to prevent access byothers from front of the holster or the back side of the holster, as theholster is worn. The recess opening upwardly providing access to theholster wearer as well as guide structure to easily and non-visuallyguide the users thumb to the proper location both to actuate a thumbrelease button and for the master grip.

A holster for receiving a handgun having a trigger guard, comprises aholster body supporting a retention mechanism. In embodiments, theholster body has a plurality of holster wall portions defining a handgunholding cavity extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis.In embodiments, the retention mechanism comprises a lever pivotallysupported by the holster body. In embodiments, the lever with a pivotingconnection length of the lever extending more than half of the length ofthe lever, providing stability of the lever and holster body interface.In embodiments, the lever comprising an elongate central portionintegrally formed with a first forward pivot portion and the holsterbody comprising a second forward pivot portion integrally formed withone of the holster wall portions, the first forward pivot portion matingwith the second forward pivot portion. In embodiments, the lever furthercomprises a first rearward pivot portion integrally formed with theelongate central portion and the holster body comprising a secondrearward pivot portion integrally formed with one of the holster wallportions, the first rearward pivot portion mating with the secondrearward pivot portion. In embodiments, one of the forward pivotportions is a pin portion and the other of the forward pivot portions isa C-shaped pin receiving portion. In embodiments, one of the rearwardpivot portions is a pin portion and the other of the rearward pivotportions is a C-shaped pin receiving portion. In embodiments, the leveris pivotally attached to the holster body and is moveable between ahandgun trigger guard capture position and a handgun trigger guardrelease position.

In embodiments, a holster body has exterior bosses for receiving eithera handgun button guard for a holster with a single active retentionmechanism, or for receiving components of a second retention mechanism.A feature and advantage is the same holster body can be utilized for twodifferent holsters, one with a single active retention mechanism and onewith two active retention mechanisms.

In embodiments, a holster body has an inner liner supported by an outerlayer, the inner liner of a polymer softer than the polymer of the outerlayer, the holster body defining a pair of opposing V-shaped portionsfor supporting the forward portion of the handgun, the V-shaped portionshaving an upper inverted V portion and a lower V portion, the V-shapedportions for engaging with the slide and body corners of the forwardportion of the handgun, the lower V-shaped portion having an tensioningscrew for adjusting the spacing of opposing legs of the lower V-shapedportion.

In embodiments, a forward holster body has a rhombus or diamond shape,with an adjustable gap at the bottom of where four corners of theforward portion of a handgun engages intermediate portions of each sideof the diamond shape. An adjustment screw at the bottom of diamondcauses contraction or expansion of the diamond shape allowing adjustmentof the engagement and gripping of the holster on the handgun. A softerinner layer of the holster body enhances the gripping function.

In embodiments, a jacket slot belt loop attaches to a proximal wallportion of a holster, the holster having an active retention mechanismon the proximal wall portion of the holster, the jacket slot belt loopcapturing components of the active retention mechanism between theproximal wall portion of the holster body and the jacket slot belt loop.

In embodiments, the U-shaped shroud of the holster is part of a hoodassembly. In embodiments, a bracket of the hood assembly includes a lugportion and the thumb receiving tab includes a protrusion portion thatengages the lug portion of the hood assembly while the U-shaped shroudis in the handgun retaining position. In embodiments, the holsterfurther includes a hood spring that biases the U-shaped shroud to pivottoward the release position. In embodiments, the hood spring biases thelug portion of the hood assembly against the protrusion portion of thethumb receiving tab while the U-shaped shroud is in the handgunretaining position. In embodiments, rotation of the thumb receiving tabthrough a first range of rotary motion causes the protrusion portion ofthe thumb receiving tab to disengage from the lug portion of the hoodassembly. In embodiments, rotation of the thumb receiving tab through asecond range of rotary motion causes the thumb receiving tab to engagethe tab receiving portion of the lever causing at least a portion of thetrigger guard retaining portion of the lever to be withdrawn from thetrigger guard receiving portion of the holster body.

In embodiments, the holster includes the hood spring, a lever spring anda tab spring. In embodiments, each spring comprises a length of wire,the wire of the spring forming a first leg, a second leg and a coildisposed between the first leg and the second leg. In embodiments, thefirst leg of the hood spring is fixed relative to the holster body andthe second leg of the hood spring is seated against the hood assembly sothat the U-shaped shroud is biased to pivot toward the release position.In embodiments, the lever spring is positioned and adapted to bias thelever to rotate toward the handgun trigger guard capture position. Inembodiments, the first leg of the lever spring is seated against to theholster body and the second leg of the lever spring is seated againstthe lever. In embodiments, the tab spring is positioned and adapted tobias the thumb receiving tab to rotate in a direction that moves adistal end of the thumb receiving tab away from the holster body. Inembodiments, the first leg of the tab spring is seated against to theholster body and the second leg of the tab spring is seated against thethumb receiving tab.

The above summary is not intended to describe each illustratedembodiment or every implementation of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings included in the present application are incorporated into,and form part of, the specification. They illustrate embodiments of thepresent disclosure and, along with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the disclosure. The drawings are only illustrative ofcertain embodiments and do not limit the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a handgun and a holster inaccordance with the detailed description.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing a handgun and a holster inaccordance with the detailed description.

FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view showing a holster body and alever.

FIG. 3B is an exploded perspective view showing a belt receiving member,a holster body and a lever.

FIG. 3C is an exploded perspective view showing a belt receiving member,a holster body and a lever.

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view showing a holster body and alever.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an assembly including a lever and ahandgun having a trigger guard. The handgun is cross-sectioned forpurposes of illustration in FIG. 5 .

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an assembly including a lever and ahandgun having a trigger guard. The handgun is cross-sectioned forpurposes of illustration in FIG. 6 .

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an assembly including a lever and ahandgun having a trigger guard. The handgun is cross-sectioned forpurposes of illustration in FIG. 7 .

FIGS. 8A and 8B are plan views of an assembly including a lever and ahandgun having a trigger guard. The handgun is cross-sectioned forpurposes of illustration in FIGS. 8A and 8B.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectioned perspective view of an assembly including aholster and a handgun having a trigger guard. The holster and thehandgun are cross-sectioned for purposes of illustration in FIG. 9 .

FIG. 10 is a plan view of an assembly including a holster and a handgunhaving a trigger guard. The holster and the handgun are cross-sectionedfor purposes of illustration in FIG. 10 .

FIGS. 11A-11C are stylized cross-sectional views each showing a pin anda pin receiving portion.

FIG. 12 is a stylized cross-sectional view showing a pin and a pinreceiving portion.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a pin and a pin receiving portion.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing a handgun and a holster inaccordance with the detailed description.

FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view showing a holster body and twoactive handgun retention mechanisms operated by a single thumb button.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing retention mechanisms seen in theexploded perspective view of FIG. 15 .

FIG. 17 is an exploded perspective view further illustrating some of theelements seen in the sub-assembly of FIG. 16 .

FIG. 18A is a perspective view of components of handgun retentionmechanisms.

FIG. 18B is an exploded view of the components of FIG. 18A.

FIG. 19 is a further exploded view of components of the handgunretention mechanisms including a housing for securing the pivoting thumbbutton.

FIG. 20 is a further exploded view of components of the handgunretention mechanisms taken from the side opposite that of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 21 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a holster with a withthumb button operating a single retention mechanism and a thumb buttonguard.

FIG. 22 is a plan view of a holster with a holstered handgun and auser's hand about the grasp the handgun.

FIG. 23 is a plan view of a holster with a holstered handgun and auser's hand engaging the handgun.

FIG. 24 is a plan view of a holster with a holstered handgun and auser's hand engaging the handgun.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view showing a holster including a hood spring,a lever spring, and a tab spring. For purposes of illustration andexplanation, the hood spring, the lever spring, and the tab spring areeach illustrated a second time at a location spaced away from theholster.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view showing an assembly including a lever, alever spring, a tab, and a tab spring. For purposes of illustration andexplanation, the lever spring and the tab spring are each illustrated asecond time at a location spaced away from the assembly.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an assembly including a lever, a leverspring, a tab, and a tab spring. For purposes of illustration andexplanation, the lever spring and the tab spring are each illustrated asecond time at a location spaced away from the assembly.

FIGS. 28A and 28B are perspective views showing an assembly including ahood assembly and a thumb receiving tab.

FIGS. 29A and 29B are perspective views showing an assembly including ahood assembly and a thumb receiving tab.

FIG. 30A is a plan view showing a hood assembly part having a lugportion and a thumb receiving tab having a protrusion portion thatselectively engages the lug portion of the hood assembly part. FIG. 31Ais a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30A. In theembodiments of FIGS. 30A and 31A, the hood assembly part is in a handgunretaining position.

FIG. 30B is a plan view showing a hood assembly part having a lugportion and a thumb receiving tab having a protrusion portion thatselectively engages the lug portion of the hood assembly part. FIG. 31Bis a perspective view of the assembly shown in FIG. 30B. In theembodiments of FIGS. 30B and 31B, the hood assembly part is in a handgunreleasing position.

FIG. 32A is a perspective view showing a holster in accordance with thedetailed description.

FIG. 32B is a perspective view showing selected parts from the holstershown in FIG. 32A. The parts shown in FIG. 32B include a U-shapedshroud, a bracket and a finger receiving tab.

FIG. 32C is a perspective view further illustrating the parts shown inFIG. 32B. In FIG. 32C, the U-shaped shroud, the bracket and the fingerreceiving tab are shown from a different viewpoint.

FIGS. 33A and 33B are two perspective views showing a holster includinga U-shaped shroud. In the embodiment of FIG. 33A, the U-shaped shroud isin a handgun retaining position. In the embodiment of FIG. 33B, theU-shaped shroud is in a release position.

FIGS. 34A and 34B are perspective views of a belt engaging member.

FIG. 35A is a front view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 34Aand 34B.

FIG. 35B is a right side view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS.34A and 34B.

FIG. 35C is a top view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 34Aand 34B.

FIG. 35D is a rear view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 34Aand 34B.

FIG. 35E is a left side view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS.34A and 34B.

FIG. 35F is a bottom view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 34Aand 34B.

FIGS. 36A and 36B are two perspective views showing a holster having afirst handgun retention mechanism including a pivotable lever and asecond handgun retention mechanism including a U-shaped shroud. In theembodiment of FIGS. 36A and 36B, the U-shaped shroud is in a handgunretaining position.

FIG. 37A is a front view of the holster shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B.

FIG. 37B is a right side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B.

FIG. 37C is a top view of the holster shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B.

FIG. 37D is a rear view of the holster shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B.

FIG. 37E is a left side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B.

FIG. 37F is a bottom view of the holster shown in FIGS. 36A and 36B.

FIGS. 38A and 38B are two perspective views showing a holster having ahandgun retention mechanism including a pivotable lever.

FIG. 39A is a front view of the holster shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B.

FIG. 39B is a right side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B.

FIG. 39C is a top view of the holster shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B.

FIG. 39D is a rear view of the holster shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B.

FIG. 39E is a left side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B.

FIG. 39F is a bottom view of the holster shown in FIGS. 38A and 38B.

FIG. 40 is an exploded perspective view showing a belt receiving member,a holster body and a lever.

FIG. 41 is an exploded perspective view showing a holster body and alever.

FIG. 42 is an exploded perspective view showing a belt receiving member,a holster body and two locking mechanisms.

FIG. 43 is an exploded perspective view showing a holster body and twolocking mechanisms.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view showing the belt receiving member, theholster body and the lever shown in FIG. 40 .

FIG. 45 is a top view showing the belt receiving member, the holsterbody and the lever shown in FIG. 40 .

FIG. 46 is a perspective view showing the belt receiving member, theholster body and the locking mechanisms shown in FIG. 42 .

FIG. 47 is a top view showing the belt receiving member, the holsterbody and the locking mechanisms shown in FIG. 42 .

FIGS. 48A and 48B are perspective views of a belt engaging member.

FIG. 49A is a front view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 48Aand 48B.

FIG. 49B is a right side view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS.48A and 48B.

FIG. 49C is a top view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 48Aand 48B.

FIG. 49D is a rear view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 48Aand 48B.

FIG. 49E is a left side view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS.48A and 48B.

FIG. 49F is a bottom view of the belt engaging member shown in FIGS. 48Aand 48B.

FIGS. 50A and 50B are two perspective views showing a holster having afirst handgun retention mechanism including a pivotable lever and asecond handgun retention mechanism including a U-shaped shroud. In theembodiment of FIGS. 50A and 50B, the U-shaped shroud is in a handgunretaining position.

FIG. 51A is a front view of the holster shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B.

FIG. 51B is a right side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B.

FIG. 51C is a top view of the holster shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B.

FIG. 51D is a rear view of the holster shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B.

FIG. 51E is a left side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B.

FIG. 51F is a bottom view of the holster shown in FIGS. 50A and 50B.

FIGS. 52A and 52B are two perspective views showing a holster having ahandgun retention mechanism including a pivotable lever.

FIG. 53A is a front view of the holster shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B.

FIG. 53B is a right side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B.

FIG. 53C is a top view of the holster shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B.

FIG. 53D is a rear view of the holster shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B.

FIG. 53E is a left side view of the holster shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B.

FIG. 53F is a bottom view of the holster shown in FIGS. 52A and 52B.

While the embodiments of the disclosure are amenable to variousmodifications and alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shownby way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail. Itshould be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit thedisclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, theintention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternativesfalling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1-4 , perspective views of a handgun 80 and a holster100 are shown. FIG. 1 shows the handgun 80 withdrawn from the holster100 and FIG. 2 shows the handgun inserted into the holster 100. Thehandgun being conventional and having a forward end 82, a handgun body84, a grip 86 at a rearward end 87 of the handgun 80, a trigger guard90, a back strap 92 with a backstrap recess 94, a slide 98 positionedabove the handgun body, and a rail 99 positioned below the slide. Inembodiments, the holster 100 for receiving and withdrawing the handgunhaving a trigger guard 90 comprises a polymer holster body 102, anelongate polymer pivoting lever 104 that is part of a first handgunretention mechanism 106 that is thumb actuated. The pivoting lever hasan actuation tab 107 configured as by a thumb receiving button that isdisposed in an opening 105 in the holster body, actuation of the thumbreceiving button moves a trigger guard block portion 128 of the leverbetween retention and release positions. The retention mechanism 106 hastwo distinct separated pivoting connections 109 each formed from a pairof cooperating connector pivot portions 110, one of each pair unitarywith the holster body and the other of each pair unitary with the lever.In embodiments, the pivot portions 110 of the lever 104 and pivotportions 110 of the holster body 102 are coupled using a simple assemblyprocess with no separate hinge pin.

The holster body has three unitary bosses 111 on a proximal wall portion113 for attachment to a plate portion of a user attachment means, suchas a belt engaging member. See FIGS. 12 and 13 . The holster having aproximal side toward and holster body having a proximal

Continuing to referring to FIGS. 1-4 , in embodiments, the holster body102 has a plurality of holster wall portions defining a cavity 108extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis 110H. Inembodiments, the retention mechanism 106 comprises a lever 104 pivotallysupported by the holster body 102 and retained by holster attachmentplate portion 165 or by other means. The lever 104 may comprise anelongate central portion 124 integrally formed with a first forwardpivot portion 112 and the holster body 102 may comprises a secondforward pivot portion 114 integrally formed with one of the holster wallportions. The first forward pivot portion 112 may mate with the secondforward pivot portion 114 to form a forward pivoting connection 109. Inembodiments, the lever 104 further comprises a first rearward pivotportion 116 integrally formed with the elongate central portion 124 ofthe lever 104 and the holster body 102 comprises a second rearward pivotportion 118 integrally formed with one of the holster wall portions. Thefirst rearward pivot portion 116 may mate with the second rearward pivotportion 118 to form a rearward pivoting connection 109. In embodimentsall pivot portions of the retention mechanism are axially aligned andco-axial when assembled.

Continuing to referring to FIGS. 1-4 , in embodiments, is a retentionmechanism having a lever that can be pivoted with little tension in themuscles and tendons of the forearm and thumb while the forearm isextending in a downward direction and the thumb is contacting the athumb button portion of the lever. In embodiments, the retainingmechanism comprises a lever having a thumb button portion, and the leverpivots about an axis that is parallel to a handgun insertion andwithdrawal axis of the holster. In embodiments, the retaining mechanismcomprises a thumb-actuated button that pivots about a first axis and alever that pivots about a second axis that is parallel to the firstaxis.

Referring to FIGS. 5-8B, in embodiments, the lever 104 of the retentionmechanism 106 has an elongate central portion 124, a thumb receivingportion 107, configured as a thumb button, and a blocking portion 128.The thumb receiving portion of the lever comprising a first arm 130extending away from the elongate central portion 124 in a firstdirection, the elongate central portion 124 and the first arm 130cooperating to form a first L-shaped portion 132. The blocking portion128 of the lever 104 comprises a second arm 134 extending away from theelongate central portion 124 in a second direction opposite the firstdirection, the elongate central portion 124 and the second arm 134cooperating to form a second L-shaped portion 136.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7 , the lever 104 is elongate in the directionof the axis X and has a lever length L1. The pivot portions 112, 116have a separation distance D1 and have a pivoting connection length L2.The pivoting connection length L2 to the overall lever length L1 is inembodiments greater than 0.70 or 70%; in embodiments, greater than 0.60or 60%; in embodiments greater than 0.80 or 80%.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2 , a forward or handgun insertion direction Zand a rearward or handgun withdrawal direction −Z are illustrated usingarrows labeled “Z” and “−Z,” respectively. An upward direction Y and adownward direction −Y are illustrated using arrows labeled “Y” and “−Y,”respectively. A direction X extending away from the user's body and theuser attachment side of the holster is illustrated using an arrowlabeled “X.” A direction −X extending toward the user's body and theuser attachment side of the holster is illustrated using an arrowlabeled “−X.” The directions illustrated using these arrows may beconceptualized, by way of example and not limitation, from the point ofview of a user who is wearing a holster hung from a service belt andinserting a handgun into the holster. The directions illustrated usingthese arrows may also be conceptualized, by way of example and notlimitation, from the point of view of a user holding a handgun in anormal firing position and viewing the gunsights of the handgun. Thedirections illustrated using these arrows may be applied to theapparatus shown and discussed throughout this application. Inembodiments, the Z direction and the −Z direction are both generallyorthogonal to the XY plane defined by the X direction and the Ydirection. In embodiments, the X direction and the −X direction are bothgenerally orthogonal to the ZY plane defined by the Z direction and the−Z direction. In embodiments, the Y direction and the −Y direction areboth generally orthogonal to the ZX plane defined by the Z direction andthe X direction. Various direction-indicating terms are used herein as aconvenient way to discuss the objects shown in the figures. It will beappreciated that many direction indicating terms are related to theinstant orientation of the object being described. It will also beappreciated that the objects described herein may assume variousorientations without deviating from the spirit and scope of thisdetailed description. Accordingly, direction-indicating terms such as“upwardly,” “downwardly,” “forwardly,” “rearwardly,” etc. should not beinterpreted to limit the scope of the invention recited in the attachedclaims.

Referring to FIG. 9 , a cross-sectioned perspective view of a holsterbody 102 is shown. In the example embodiment of FIG. 9 , the holsterbody 102 is formed from two polymers, one overmolded onto the other,providing an interior layer 138 and an exterior layer 140. Inembodiments, the interior layer 138 is softer than the exterior layer140 minimizing any wear, damage or markings on the exterior surface ofthe handgun that is received in the cavity 108 defined by the holster.In embodiments, the interior layer 138 and the exterior layer 140 arecombined using an assembly process. In embodiments, the interior layer138 comprises a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) and the exterior layer 140a thermoplastic material. In embodiments, the interior layer 138comprises Hytrel® polymer, available from DuPont, and the exterior layer140 comprises nylon. The exterior layer being harder and stiffer thanthe interior layer.

Referring to FIG. 10 , a cross-sectional view of a holster body 102 isshown. In embodiments, the holster body 102 is formed to provide ahandgun fitting function that can be adjusted by rotating a tensioningscrew 142. The shape of the forward portion of the handgun can beconceptualized as a four cornered geometric figure, roughly a rectangle,and the shape of the cavity 108 defined by the holster body 102 can beconfigured to make point contact with the four corners of the figure orrectangle. In embodiments, the shape of the cavity 108 defined by theholster body 102 can be conceptualized as two opposing V-shapes, anupper V-shape 148 and a lower V-shape 146. The upper V-shape 148 and thelower V-shape 146 are shown using dashed lines in FIG. 10 . The two legsof the upper V-shape 148 and the two legs of the lower V-shape 146 mayeach contact one corner of the figure or rectangle. In embodiments, thelower V-shape 146 defines a slot 144 near the lower end of the lowerV-shape 146. A tensioning screw 142 is positioned to selectivelydecrease the angle between the two legs of the lower V-shape 146. As theangle between the two legs of the lower V-shape 146 decreases, the twolegs of the lower V-shape 146 apply upwardly directed component forcesto two lower corners 150 of the rectangle. The forces applied to thelower corners 150 of the rectangle urge the two upper corners 152 of therectangle against the two legs of the upper V-shape 148.

The components herein may be formed of thermoplastic polymers using aninjection molding process.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 4 and 11A-11C, a retention mechanism 106 for aholster 100 may include a lever pivotally supported by the holster body102. The lever 104 may comprise an elongate central portion 124integrally formed with a first forward pivot portion 112, and theholster body 102 may comprise a second forward pivot portion 114integrally formed with a wall portion of the holster body 102. The firstforward pivot portion 112 may be mated with the second forward pivotportion so that the lever 104 is pivotally supported by the holster body102. In embodiments, one of the forward pivot portions 112, 114 is a pinportion 154 and the other of the forward pivot portions 112, 114 is aC-shaped pin receiving portion 156. In embodiments, the C-shaped pinreceiving portion 156 has a circumferential span less than or equal to180 degrees. In embodiments, the C-shaped pin receiving portion 156 hasa circumferential span greater than 180 degrees; in embodiments greaterthan 185°; and in embodiments greater than 190°. In embodiments, one ofthe forward pivot portions 112, 114 is a pin portion 154 and the otherof the forward pivot portions 112, 114 is a U-shaped pin receivingportion 156.

With continuing reference to FIGS. 3, 4 and 11A-11C, the lever 104 mayfurther comprise a first rearward pivot portion 116 integrally formedwith the elongate central portion 124 and the holster body 102 maycomprise a second rearward pivot portion 118 integrally formed with awall portion of the holster body 102. The first rearward pivot portion116 may be mated with the second rearward pivot portion so that thelever 104 is pivotally supported by the holster body 102. Inembodiments, one of the rearward pivot portions 116, 118 is a pinportion 154 and the other of the rearward pivot portions 116, 118 is aC-shaped pin receiving portion 156. In embodiments, the C-shaped pinreceiving portion 156 has a circumferential span less than or equal to180 degrees. In embodiments, the C-shaped pin receiving portion 156 hasa circumferential span greater than 180 degrees; in embodiments greaterthan 185°; and in embodiments greater than 190°. In embodiments, one ofthe rearward pivot portions 116, 118 is a pin portion 154 and the otherof the rearward pivot portions 116, 118 is a U-shaped pin receivingportion 156.

Referring to FIGS. 3B and 3C, a holster 100 in accordance with thisdetailed description may comprise a holster attachment plate portion 165that is part of or all of a user attachment means for the holster whichmay be a belt engaging member. The plate portion 165 may retain thelever 104 in a pivoting connection arrangement with the holster body102. The lever 104 may be pivotally supported by the holster body 102and may be moveable between a handgun trigger guard capture position anda handgun trigger guard release position. In embodiments, the plateportion 165 is fixed to the holster body 102 by a plurality of screws162. The lever 104, may be, for example, captured between the beltengaging member 160, or other user attachment means, and the holsterbody 102. In embodiments, the lever 104 can be freely separated from theholster body 102 after the belt engaging member 160 is removed from theholster body 102. In embodiments, the belt engaging member 160 comprisesa first belt loop portion 164 defining a first passageway 166 to receivea belt and a second belt loop portion 168 defining a second passageway170 for receiving the belt.

The user attachment means 160 may comprise various holster supportingdevices without deviating from the spirit and scope of this detaileddescription. Examples of holster supporting devices that may be suitablein some applications are disclosed in the following United Statespatents all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein: U.S.Pat. Nos. D653848, D567707, D508318, 9,134,093, 8,783,532, 8,517,234,8,469,245, 8,297,562, 8,251,266, 8,235,263, 7,866,515, 7,320,420,9,423,210, 9,664,480, 9,841,255, 9,222,751, 8,544,706, 8,215,525,8,100,304, 7,971,762, 7,922,050, 7,690,541, 6,478,202, 6,189,751, and5,467,909.

Referring to FIGS. 14-17 , in embodiments, a holster 100 has a firsthandgun retention mechanism 106′ that engages the trigger guard aspreviously described with respect to FIGS. 1-13 , and a second handgunretention mechanism 106′ with a pivoting lever 104′. A dual actuationmember 179 with a thumb button 180 actuates both the first handgunretention mechanism 106′ and the second handgun retention mechanism 174.In embodiments, each handgun retention mechanism selectively preventsthe handgun 80 from being withdrawn from the cavity 108 defined by thewall portions 109 of the holster body 102.

The second handgun retention mechanism 106′ comprises a slide retentionmember configured as a U-shaped shroud 176 that is pivotally supportedby the holster body 102 so that the U-shaped shroud 176 selectivelypivots between a handgun retaining position in which the U-shaped shroud176 extends across a portion of a rearward opening 178 of the cavity 108and a release position in which the U-shaped shroud 176 extends forwardof the rearward opening 178 so that a withdrawal path of the handgun 80is unobstructed. In embodiments, the U-shaped shroud 176 pivots about ashroud pivot axis AC that extends laterally and is perpendicular to thehandgun insertion and withdrawal axis AA.

Referring to FIGS. 15-20 , in embodiments, the first handgun retentionmechanism 106′ comprises a lever 104′ pivotally supported by the holsterbody 102. The lever 104′ may be similarly configured to the lever 106 ofFIGS. 1-13 . In embodiments, the lever 104′ has an elongate centralportion 124, a depressible actuation portion 186, and a trigger guardblocking portion 128. The depressible actuation portion 186 of the lever104 comprises a first arm 130 extending away from the elongate centralportion 124 in a first direction so that the elongate central portion124 and the first arm 130 cooperate to form a first L-shape 182. Thetrigger guard blocking portion 128 of the lever 104′ comprises a secondarm 134 extending away from the elongate central portion 124 in a seconddirection opposite the first direction so that the elongate centralportion 124 and the second arm 134 cooperate to form a second L-shape184. In embodiments, the lever 104′ is pivotally supported by theholster body so that the lever 104′ pivots about a lever axis 110 thatextends in upward and downward directions as the holster is worn orforward and rearward with respect to the handgun. In embodiments, thelever pivots between a handgun trigger guard blocking or captureposition and a handgun trigger guard non-blocking or release position.The trigger guard blocking portion 128 of the lever 104 extends into atrigger guard portion of the holster body 102 when the lever 104′ isdisposed in the handgun trigger guard capture position.

Continuing to referring to FIGS. 15-20 , a feature and benefit ofembodiments is a retention mechanism having a lever that can be pivotedwith little tension in the muscles and tendons of the forearm and thumbwhile the forearm is extending in a downward direction and the thumb isused to rotate the lever. In embodiments, the retaining mechanismcomprises a thumb-actuated button that pivots about a first axis and alever that pivots about a second axis that is parallel to the firstaxis. In embodiments, the lever pivots about an axis that is parallel toa handgun insertion and withdrawal axis of the holster. In embodiments,the thumb-actuated button pivots about an axis that is parallel to ahandgun insertion and withdrawal axis of the holster.

Referring to FIGS. 16-20 , the second handgun retention mechanism isillustrated. The slide blocking member configured as a shroud 176 ispart of a hood assembly 188. Fasteners 197, 198 pivotally secure theU-shaped shroud, second handgun retention mechanism housing 201, bracket190 with slot 144, to the holster body. Fastener 199 secures theopposite side of the shroud to the holster body. The second handgunretention mechanism 174 utilizes the retention mechanism housing 201 tosecure components of the retention mechanism in place. The housing hastwo cooperating components, and inward member 202 and an outward member204, that may be arranged in a clamshell-like fashion that captures theleaf spring 194 and a pivoting shaft 206 of the dual actuation member179 within the housing 201. In embodiments, the holster includes aspring 196 that biases the U-shaped shroud 176 to pivot toward therelease position. In embodiments, the holster 100 includes the leafspring 194 that is received in the slot 144 of the bracket 190 when theU-shaped shroud 176 is in the handgun retaining position. The base 195of the leaf spring 194 is fixed with respect to the holster body and thetip 196 of the leaf spring 194 can flex inwardly and outwardly. Thebracket 190 is attached to the U-shaped shroud 176 such that as the leafspring 194 keeps the bracket from rotating forwardly it also keeps theshroud from rotating forwardly. In embodiments, rotation of the thumbreceiving tab or button 180 through a first range of rotary motioncauses deflection of the leaf spring 194 so that a distal portion of theleaf spring 194 moves outside of the slot 144 allowing the bracket 190and also the shroud 176 to rotate forwardly. In embodiments, rotation ofthe thumb button 180 through a second range of rotary motion causes thethumb button 180 to engage the depressible actuation portion 186 of thelever 104 causing at least part of the trigger guard blocking portion128 of the lever to be withdrawn from the trigger guard receivingportion of the holster body 102. In this embodiment, the thumb receivingportion of the lever 104 of the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4 has beenreplaced with an actuation portion or depressible portion that isdepressed by the inner side of the thumb receiving tab 180.

The first and second active handgun retention mechanisms may be arrangedsuch that the second and first mechanisms can actuate sequentially orsimultaneously, in embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 21 , another embodiment of a holster 300 comprising aholster body 306 similar to that of FIGS. 14 and 15 with a top orforward wall portion that mostly covers the slide of a handgun holsteredtherein, a pair of bosses 310 that can receive components of a secondactive handgun retention mechanism or, as illustrated in FIG. 21 , aremovable thumb button guard 312 secured to the bosses with fasteners316. The lever 104 may be configured as discussed previously withrespect to FIGS. 1-9 and has a thumb button 180. The plate portion 165of a belt engaging member may capture the pivoting lever onto theholster body.

Referring to FIGS. 22-24 , the sequence of gripping and drawing ahandgun 80 from a holster 100 having a optimally positioned thumb button107 is illustrated. The handgrip 330 of the handgun 80 has a backstrap322 region with a backstrap recess 324 that receives the user's hand 340initially by the webbing 342 of the hand contacting the recess 324. Theuser will then wrap his middle, ring, and pinky fingers 350, 351, 352around the grip as shown in FIG. 23 and will have his forefinger 353 ina longitudinal recess for said finger on the side of the holsteropposite the thumb button. The thumb 354 will naturally be positioned atthe thumb button 107 such that a normal grasping action of the grip,consistent with the “master grip” will depress the thumb button 107 andactuate the retention mechanism 104. Referring to FIGS. 22-25, 36A, 36B,38A, 38B and 40-43 , the master grip and ergonomics are furtherfacilitated in embodiments where the thumb button 180 is positioned withno holster body directly rearward of the rearward margin of the thumbbutton 180, as well as no holster body portions below the thumb button180. In use, as the handgun 80 is gripped prior to actuation of thethumb button 180, the user's thumb is in the natural gripping positionat the surface of the thumb button 180, the thumb button 180 isdepressed, coincident with grasping the handgun 80, and as the handgun80 is withdrawn, the user's thumb slides off of the thumb button 180into immediate contact with the handgun 80. That is, there is noengagement with the exterior surface of the holster body 102 by theuser's thumb either during actuation of the release of the retentionmechanism or as the handgun 80 is withdrawn. In that the thumb button180 is positioned in close proximity to the surface of the handgun 80,the thumb movement inward as the thumb transitions from engagement withthe thumb button 180 to engagement with the body of the handgun 80 isminimal.

Referring to FIGS. 25-27 , in embodiments, the holster includes the hoodspring 196, a lever spring 198 and a tab spring 200. In embodiments,each spring comprises a length of wire, the wire of the spring forming afirst leg 208, a second leg 210 and a coil 212 disposed between thefirst leg 208 and the second leg 210. In embodiments, the first leg 208of the hood spring 196 is fixed relative to the holster body 102 and thesecond leg 210 of the hood spring 196 is seated against the hoodassembly 188 so that the U-shaped shroud 176 is biased to pivot towardthe release position. In embodiments, the lever spring 198 is positionedand adapted to bias the lever 104 to rotate toward the handgun triggerguard capture position. In embodiments, the first leg 208 of the leverspring 198 is seated against to the holster body 102 and the second leg210 of the lever spring 198 is seated against the lever 104. Inembodiments, the tab spring 200 is positioned and adapted to bias thethumb receiving tab 180 to rotate in a direction that moves a distal endof the thumb receiving tab 180 away from the holster body 102. Inembodiments, the first leg 208 of the tab spring 200 is seated againstto the holster body 102 and the second leg 210 of the tab spring 200 isseated against the thumb receiving tab 180.

Referring to FIGS. 28A-31B, in embodiments, the U-shaped shroud 176 ispart of a hood assembly 188. In embodiments, a bracket 190 of the hoodassembly 188 includes a lug portion 214 and the thumb receiving tab 180includes a protrusion portion 216 that engages the lug portion 214 ofthe hood assembly 188 while the U-shaped shroud 176 is in the handgunretaining position. In embodiments, the holster 100 further includes ahood spring 196 that biases the U-shaped shroud 176 to pivot toward therelease position. In embodiments, the hood spring 196 biases the lugportion 214 of the hood assembly 188 against the protrusion portion 216of the thumb receiving tab 180 while the U-shaped shroud 176 is in thehandgun retaining position. In embodiments, rotation of the thumbreceiving tab 180 through a first range of rotary motion causes theprotrusion portion 216 of the thumb receiving tab 180 to disengage fromthe lug portion 214 of the hood assembly 188. In embodiments, rotationof the thumb receiving tab 180 through a second range of rotary motioncauses the thumb receiving tab 180 to engage the tab receiving portionof the lever 104 causing at least a portion of the trigger guardretaining portion of the lever 104 to be withdrawn from the triggerguard receiving portion of the holster body 102.

Referring to FIGS. 33A and 33B, a feature and benefit of embodiments isa retention mechanism having a lever 104′ that can be pivoted withlittle tension in the muscles and tendons of the forearm and thumb whilethe forearm is extending in a downward direction and the thumb iscontacting a thumb receiving tab 180. In embodiments, the retainingmechanism comprises a thumb receiving tab 180 that pivots about a firstaxis and a lever 104′ that pivots about a second axis that is parallelto the first axis. In embodiments, the lever 104′ pivots about an axisthat is parallel to a handgun insertion and withdrawal axis 110H of theholster 100. In embodiments, the thumb receiving tab 180 pivots about anaxis that is parallel to a handgun insertion and withdrawal axis of theholster 100. FIGS. 33A and 33B are two perspective views showing aholster including a U-shaped shroud. In the embodiment of FIG. 33A, theU-shaped shroud is in a handgun retaining position. In the embodiment ofFIG. 33B, the U-shaped shroud is in a release position.

Referring to FIGS. 1-47 , in embodiments, an exteriorly worn holster 100for receiving a handgun 80 has a holster body 102 having a plurality ofunitary holster wall portions defining a handgun receiving cavity 108and a rearward opening 88. In embodiments, the handgun has a handgunbody 84, a handgrip 86, a slide 98, and a trigger guard 90. Inembodiments, the holster body 102 has a handgun receiving and withdrawalaxis 110H. In embodiments, the plurality of holster wall portionscomprise a user proximal wall portion 113 and a user distal wall portion115, the proximal wall portion 113 having thumb button recess 218 with athumb button recess edge portion 220 defining the thumb button recess218. In embodiments, the thumb button recess 218 extends forwardly fromthe rearward opening 88.

In embodiments, a first user actuatable handgun retention mechanism 106of the holster 100 is located at the proximal wall portion 113 forselectively preventing the handgun 80, when in the cavity 108, frombeing withdrawn from the cavity 108. In embodiments, the first handgunretention mechanism 106 comprises a first lever 104 pivotally mounted onthe proximal wall portion 113 of the holster body 102 with a first axisof rotation. In embodiments, the first lever 104 has an actuation tab107 rearwardly positioned on the lever 104 and positioned within thethumb button recess 218. In embodiments, the actuation tab 107 has anupper margin 222, a rearward margin 224, and a lower margin 226. Inembodiments, the lever 104 further has a trigger guard blocking portion128 forwardly positioned on the lever 104, the lever 104 beingconfigured and positioned such that depression of the actuation tab 107rotates the lever 104 about its respective axis of rotation to move thetrigger guard blocking portion 128 from a trigger guard blockingposition to a non-blocking position.

In embodiments, an upper portion 242 of the thumb button recess edgeportion 220 extends rearwardly of the actuation tab 107 along the uppermargin 222 of the actuation tab 107 and a lower portion 246 of the thumbbutton recess edge portion 220 extends rearwardly of the actuation tab107 at the lower margin 226 of the actuation tab 107.

In embodiments, the holster 100 has only a single user actuatablehandgun retention mechanism 106 and the actuation tab is configured asan actuation tab 107. In embodiments, the holster 100 comprises a pairof thumb guides 230 positioned above and below the actuation tab 107,the thumb guides 230 projecting laterally outward from the holster bodyproximal wall portion 113 beyond an undepressed position of theactuation tab 107. In embodiments, the thumb guides 230 each extendlaterally outward from an outward surface of the proximal wall portion113 a distance of at least 0.35 inches.

In embodiments, the holster 100 has a second handgun retention mechanism174 including a pivoting shroud 176 positioned rearwardly of the slide98 of the handgun 80 holstered in the holster 100. In embodiments, thesecond handgun retention mechanism 174 comprises a second lever 104′,the second lever 104′ having an actuation tab configured as a thumbbutton 180, the actuation tab of the first lever position behind thethumb button 180 whereby depression of the thumb button 180 alsodepresses the actuation tab of the first lever.

In embodiments, the holster 100 further comprises a pair of thumb guides230 positioned above and below the thumb button 180, the thumb guides230 projecting laterally outward from the holster body 102 proximal wallportion 113 beyond an undepressed position of the thumb button 180.

In embodiments, one of the thumb guides 230 is positioned above thethumb button 180 and comprises a housing for the second handgunretention mechanism 174.

In embodiments, a belt engaging member 160 is attached to the holsterbody 102 with a plurality of threaded fasteners 162 extending into theholster body 102.

In embodiments, one of said threaded fasteners 162 is positioned abovethe first lever 104, one of the plurality of threaded fasteners 162 ispositioned below the first lever 104, and one of the plurality ofthreaded fasteners 162 is positioned forward of the first lever 104,wherein the first lever 104 is captured between the holster body 102 andthe belt engaging member 162.

In embodiments, a column portion of the belt engaging member 160 extendsrearwardly, wherein when the handgun 80 is holstered. In embodiments,the thumb button 180 is positioned between the handgun body 84 and thebelt engaging member 160, wherein the belt engaging member 160 has apair of ribs 232 having their elongate dimension extending forwardly andrearwardly and positioned to confront the thumb guides 230 wherebyaccess to the thumb button 180 is restricted on four sides of the thumbbutton 180 and an access path for the thumb is provided rearwardly ofthe thumb button 180.

In embodiments, the belt engaging member 160 comprises a jacket slotbelt loop 228 having a pair of clamping belt loop portions 234 extendingfrom the column portion 236, each of the clamping belt loop portions 234being adjustable with respect to the column portion 236 by a respectivethreaded fastener 262. In embodiments, the thumb guides 230 each extendlaterally outward from an outward surface of the proximal wall portion113 a distance of at least 0.35 inches. In embodiments, the thumb guides230 each extend laterally outward from an outward surface of theproximal wall portion 113 a distance of at least 0.35 inches and theribs 232 extend outwardly from a surface of the column portion 236 adistance of at least 0.15 inches.

In embodiments, the first lever 104 is seated in a lever receivingregion 238 on the proximal wall portion 113 of the holster body and theproximal wall portion 113 has three threaded bosses 240 dispersed aroundthe lever receiving region 238 for receiving a belt engaging member 160.In embodiments, the proximal wall portion 113 further has a plurality oflever region containment wall portions 244 extending from the outersurface of the proximal wall portion 113 and each of the plurality oflever containment wall portions 244 connect to at least one of the threethreaded bosses 240. In embodiments, the three threaded bosses 240 arepositioned for receiving a belt engaging member 160 utilizing aplurality of threaded fasteners 162.

In embodiments, the first lever 104 is seated in a lever receivingregion 238 on the proximal wall portion 113 and the proximal wallportion 113 has three threaded bosses 240 dispersed around the leverreceiving region 238 for receiving a belt engaging member 160 and, whenthe belt engaging member 160 is attached, the first lever 104 iscaptured within the lever receiving region 238. In embodiments, thefirst lever 104 may be removed from an engagement with the proximal wallportion 113 when the belt engaging member is not attached to theproximal wall portion 113. In embodiments, the first lever 104 may beremoved without tools when the belt engaging member is not attached. Inembodiments, the first lever 104 may be removed by simply prying thefirst lever 104 outward when the belt engaging member 160 is notattached.

In embodiments, the holster body 102 has an upper wall portion having apair of inclined wall portions defining a joint, a lower wall portionwith a slit 250 extending from a forward opening to proximate a triggerguard receiving portion of the holster body defining a pair of forwardclamping wall portions 248. In embodiments, a threaded fastener 142 ispositioned so as to extend between the pair of forward clamping wallportions 248 for adjusting the forward clamping wall portions 248 abouta forward portion of the handgun 80.

Referring to FIGS. 1-47 , in embodiments, a holster 100 is provided forreceiving a handgun 80 having a handgun body 84, a slide 98, and atrigger guard 90. In embodiments, the holster 100 comprises a holsterbody 102 having a plurality of holster wall portions defining a rearwardopening cavity 108 extending along a handgun receiving and withdrawalaxis 110H for receiving and holding the handgun 80. In embodiments, theplurality of holster wall portions comprise a user proximal wall portion113 and a user distal wall portion 115. In embodiments, the holsterincludes a first handgun retention mechanism 106′ and a second handgunretention mechanism 174, disposed at the proximal wall portion 113, eachhandgun retention mechanism selectively preventing the handgun 80, whenin the cavity 108, from being withdrawn from the cavity 108. Inembodiments, the first and second handgun retention mechanisms have arespective first lever 104′ having a first axis of rotation and a secondlever 180 with an axis of rotation, each lever having a respectiveactuation tab portion on one end of the lever where depression of theactuation tab rotates the lever about its respective axis of rotation,one of the two actuation tabs configured as a thumb receiving buttonwith an outer thumb receiving surface, the other of the two actuationtabs positioned behind the thumb receiving button such that depressionof the thumb receiving button effects a depression of the other of thetwo actuation tab portions, whereby depression of the thumb receivingbutton actuates both the first handgun retention mechanism 106′ and thesecond handgun retention mechanism 174. In embodiments, the first lever104′ of the first handgun retention mechanism 106′ is pivotallysupported by the holster body 102. In embodiments, the first lever 104′comprises an elongate central portion 124 and a blocking portion 128 atan end opposite the respective actuation tab, the blocking portion 128movable in and out of a handgun blocking position. In embodiments, thesecond handgun retention mechanism 174 comprising a U-shaped member 176that is pivotally supported by the holster body 102 so that the U-shapedmember 176 selectively pivots between a handgun retaining position inwhich the U-shaped member extends across a portion of a rearward openingof the cavity 108 and a release position in which the U-shaped member176 is displaced from the portion of the rearward opening so that awithdrawal path of the handgun 80 is unobstructed by U-shaped member176.

The following United States patents are hereby incorporated by referenceherein: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,048,735, 5,100,036, 5,129,562, 5,275,317,5,284,281, 5,372,288, 5,395,021, 5,419,474, 5,449,103, 5,509,591,5,573,157, 5,810,221, 5,810,221, 5,918,784, 5,918,784, 6,112,962,6,189,751, 6,230,946, 6,267,279, 6,276,581, 6,533,149, 6,547,111,6,547,111, 6,634,527, 6,641,009, 6,641,009, 6,752,300, 6,752,300,6,769,582, 6,799,392, 6,854,626, 7,200,965, 7,434,712, 7,461,765,7,461,765, 7,530,456, 7,530,456, 7,556,181, 7,556,181, 7,841,497,7,841,497, 7,922,050, 7,922,050, 8,141,758, 8,141,758, 8,177,108,8,235,263, 8,474,670, 8,517,235, 8,602,276, 8,602,276, 8,631,981,8,631,981, 8,646,665, 8,720,753, 8,720,753, 8,720,754, 8,720,755,8,851,344, 8,985,412, 9,022,262, 9,022,262, 9,057,579, 9,057,580,9,134,093, 9,134,093, 9,175,925, 9,175,925, 9,228,802, 9,267,760,9,347,741, 9,383,165, 9,410,767, 9,500,426, 9,777,986, and 9,835,400.Components illustrated in such patents may be utilized with embodimentsherein. Incorporation by reference is discussed, for example, in MPEPsection 2163.07(B).

The patents and other references mentioned above in all sections of thisapplication are herein incorporated by reference in their entirety forall purposes.

All of the features disclosed in this specification (including thereferences incorporated by reference, including any accompanying claims,abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or processso disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinationswhere at least some of such features and/or steps are mutuallyexclusive.

Each feature disclosed in this specification (including referencesincorporated by reference, any accompanying claims, abstract anddrawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same,equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus,unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one exampleonly of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoingembodiment(s). The invention extends to any novel one, or any novelcombination, of the features disclosed in this specification (includingany incorporated by reference references, any accompanying claims,abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination,of the steps of any method or process so disclosed The above referencesin all sections of this application are herein incorporated byreferences in their entirety for all purposes.

Although specific examples have been illustrated and described herein,it will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that anyarrangement calculated to achieve the same purpose could be substitutedfor the specific examples shown. This application is intended to coveradaptations or variations of the present subject matter. Therefore, itis intended that the invention be defined by the attached claims andtheir legal equivalents, as well as the following illustrative aspects.The above described aspects embodiments of the invention are merelydescriptive of its principles and are not to be considered limiting.Further modifications of the invention herein disclosed will occur tothose skilled in the respective arts and all such modifications aredeemed to be within the scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A holster for receiving a handgun having ahandgun body, a handgrip, a slide, and a trigger guard, the holstercomprising: a holster body having a plurality of unitary holster wallportions defining a handgun receiving cavity and a rearward opening, theholster body having a handgun receiving and withdrawal axis, theplurality of holster wall portions comprising a user proximal wallportion and a user distal wall portion, the proximal wall portion havingthumb button recess with a thumb button edge portion defining the thumbbutton recess, the thumb button recess extending forwardly from therearward opening; a first user actuatable handgun retention mechanism atthe proximal wall portion for selectively preventing the handgun, whenin the cavity, from being withdrawn from the cavity; the first handgunretention mechanism comprising a first lever pivotally mounted on theproximal wall portion of the holster body with a first axis of rotation,the first lever having an actuation tab rearwardly positioned on thelever and positioned within the recess, the actuation tab having anupper margin, a rearward margin, and a lower margin, the lever furtherhaving a trigger guard blocking portion forwardly positioned on thelever, the lever configured and positioned such that depression of theactuation tab rotates the lever about its respective axis of rotation tomove the trigger guard blocking portion from a trigger guard blockingposition to a non-blocking position, wherein an upper portion of thethumb button recess edge portion extends rearwardly of the actuation tabalong the upper margin of the actuation tab and a lower portion of thethumb button recess edge portion extends rearwardly of the actuation tabat the lower margin of the actuation tab.
 2. The holster of claim 1wherein the holster has only a single user actuatable handgun retentionmechanism and the actuation tab is configured as a thumb button.
 3. Theholster of claim 2 wherein the holster further comprises a pair of thumbguides positioned above and below the thumb button, the thumb guidesprojecting laterally outward from the holster body proximal wall portionbeyond an undepressed position of the thumb button.
 4. The holster ofclaim 4 wherein the thumb guides each extend laterally outward from anoutward surface of the proximal wall portion a distance of at least 0.35inches.
 5. The holster of claim 1 wherein the holster has a secondhandgun retention mechanism including a pivoting shroud positionedrearwardly of the slide of the handgun holstered in the holster, thesecond handgun retention mechanism comprising a second lever, the secondlever having an actuation tab configured as a thumb button, theactuation tab of the first lever position behind the thumb buttonwhereby depression of the thumb button also depresses the actuation tabof the first lever.
 6. The holster of claim 5 wherein the holsterfurther comprises a pair of thumb guides positioned above and below thethumb button, the thumb guides projecting laterally outward from theholster body proximal wall portion beyond an undepressed position of thethumb button.
 7. The holster of claim 6 wherein the thumb guidepositioned above the thumb button comprises a housing for the secondhandgun retention mechanism.
 8. The holster of claim 1, in combinationwith a belt engaging member, wherein the belt engaging member isattached with a plurality of threaded fasteners extending into theholster body, one of said threaded fasteners positioned above the firstlever, one of the plurality of threaded fasteners positioned below thefirst lever, and one of the plurality of threaded fasteners positionedforward of the first lever, wherein the first lever is captured betweenthe holster body and the belt engaging member.
 9. The holster of claim3, in combination with a belt engaging member, wherein the belt engagingmember is attached with a plurality of threaded fasteners extending intothe holster body, and wherein a column portion of the belt engagingmember extends rearwardly, wherein when the handgun is holstered thethumb button is positioned inbetween the handgun body and the beltengaging member, wherein the belt engaging member has a pair of ribshaving their elongate dimension extending forwardly and rearwardly andpositioned to confront the thumb guides whereby access to the thumbbutton is restricted on four sides of the thumb button and an accesspath for the thumb is provided rearwardly of the thumb button.
 10. Theholster of claim 9 wherein the belt engaging member is a jacket slotbelt loop having a pair of clamping belt loop portions extending fromthe column portion, each of the clamping belt loop portions adjustablewith respect to the column portion by a respective threaded fastener.11. The holster of claim 6, wherein the thumb guides each extendlaterally outward from an outward surface of the proximal wall portion adistance of at least 0.35 inches.
 12. The holster of claim 9, whereinthe thumb guides each extend laterally outward from an outward surfaceof the proximal wall portion a distance of at least 0.35 inches and theribs extend outwardly from a surface of the column portion a distance ofat least 0.15 inches.
 13. The holster of claim 1, wherein the firstlever is seated in a lever receiving region on the proximal wall portionand has two unitary pivot portions that cooperate with two pivotportions unitary with the proximal wall portion, whereby the pivotingconnection is made without metal pins.
 14. The holster of claim 1,wherein the first lever is seated in a lever receiving region on theproximal wall portion and wherein the proximal wall portion has threethreaded bosses for receiving a holster engagement member dispersedaround the lever receiving region, the proximal wall portion furtherhaving a plurality of lever region containment wall portions extendingfrom the outer surface of the proximal wall portion and each of theplurality of lever containment wall portions connecting to at least oneof the three threaded bosses, the three bosses positioned for receivinga belt engaging member utilizing a plurality of threaded fasteners. 15.The holster of claim 7, wherein the first lever is seated in a leverreceiving region on the proximal wall portion and wherein the proximalwall portion has three threaded bosses for receiving a holsterengagement member dispersed around the lever receiving region forreceiving a belt engaging member, and wherein when the belt engagingmember is attached the first lever is captured within the receivingregion, and wherein when the belt engaging member is not attached, thefirst lever may be removed from an engagement with the proximal wallportion.
 16. The holster of claim 15, wherein when the belt engagingmember is not attached, the first lever may be removed without tools.17. The holster of claim 15, wherein when the belt engaging member isnot attached, the first lever may be removed by simply prying the firstlever outwardly from its seated position.
 18. The holster of claim 14,wherein when the belt engaging member is attached, the first lever iscaptured within a first lever containment region, the thumb buttonextending out of the containment region.
 19. The holster of claim 1,wherein the holster body has an upper wall portion having a pair ofinclined wall portions defining a joint, a lower wall portion with aslit extending from a forward opening to proximate a trigger guardreceiving portion of the holster body defining a pair of forwardclamping wall portions, a threaded fastener extending between the pairof forward clamping portions for adjusting the forward clamping portionsabout a forward portion of the handgun.
 20. The holster of claim 19wherein the forward clamping body portions of the holster body areconfigured to engage the handgun at four corners of the handgun, twoupper corners defined by the handgun slide and two lower corners definedby the body. 21-73. (canceled)